Gold edges up from 7-week low; all eyes on West Asia, US economic data

Gold prices surged on Tuesday after plummeting to a seven-week low the previous day. Investors were closely monitoring events in West Asia and eagerly awaiting upcoming US economic data for more insight into the Federal Reserve's policy direction. Spot gold climbed 0.7% to $4,143.87 per ounce, as of 0708 GMT, after hitting its lowest level since August 5 on Monday. US gold futures were up 0.2% to $4,175.10.

Geopolitical factors will continue to play a significant role in gold's performance, as ongoing tensions could sustain high energy prices and yields. Christopher Tahir, senior market strategist at Exness, noted that meaningful de-escalation progress could alleviate some pressure. Recently, US and Iranian officials engaged in separate talks with mediators to resolve the seven-month-long conflict.

Oil prices climbed for two consecutive days due to ongoing concerns about potential supply disruptions in West Asia. Higher oil costs can stoke inflation by boosting expenses across the economy, possibly prompting central banks to raise interest rates. Gold typically suffers during high-rate periods as investors shift towards assets that yield interest. As of now, there is a 70.3% chance of a Fed rate increase in October, according to the CME's FedWatch Tool, up from 57.6% a week prior.

Fed Governor Lisa Cook expects sustained inflationary pressures in the coming months due to AI-related demand and rising oil prices. However, she did not explicitly state that more rate hikes would be required. Later in the day, US consumer confidence and job openings data, along with ADP employment, PCE, and nonfarm payrolls releases, will be unveiled.

Persistent price pressures coupled with robust activity may strengthen the notion that central banks must maintain restrictive measures, keeping yields high and leaving gold susceptible to additional declines.

Silver prices dipped 0.1% to $60.91, platinum fell 1% to $1,700.40, and palladium dropped 0.4% to $1,209.26. Citi predicted that investment flows will keep driving the platinum group metals market, as underlying fundamentals remain relatively stable.